Abandoned School Turned into Apartment Building for Seniors

Can you imagine living in a school that you used to attend? Well, that’s what could happen at the brand new 1st Ward School Apartments in Elkins.

The building was first built in 1907, and used as a school until the 70’s. For the past 20 years it’s been vacant, and only recently has it been brought back to life.

Several groups decided to renovate and revitalized the abandoned building a few years ago. Now, the old school house is a 16 unit apartment building on South Davis Avenue in Elkins.

There are one and two bedroom apartments, and all of them have appliances.

The project was made possible through grants and historic tax credits, something everyone involved is very proud of.

“We’re really close to downtown here, so there’s walkability, we’re next to the high school’s football field, so there’s band music and games. The other piece is the redevelopment of the building for the neighborhood. This was a vacant building that was an eyesore. Now, people have a really asset in the community and in our town,” said Karen Jacobson of the Highland Community Builders.

It’s not too late if you’re interested in leasing one of the apartments. If you’d like to find out more, you can call (304)-636-6495 ext 18.

The housing is for low income seniors, and they still have 9 units available.